Sesko Set to Make Explosive Man Utd Debut Against Grimsby in Predicted XI
Following a disappointing 2024–25 season, Manchester United find themselves competing in Carabao Cup action during August.
While they may enjoy numerous free midweek slots this season, Ruben Amorim's Red Devils begin their domestic cup journey one round earlier than the elite clubs due to their absence from European competition.
MK Dons famously demolished Louis van Gaal's United 4–0 during their last experience of this subtle humiliation 11 years ago, and Grimsby Town are hoping to inflict another low point on Amorim's struggling tenure this Wednesday evening.
Here's how Man Utd might set up for their Carabao Cup second round encounter at Blundell Park.
Man Utd Predicted Lineup vs. Grimsby (3-4-2-1)
GK: André Onana—Man Utd are bringing in another goalkeeper before the transfer window closes, but Onana is anticipated to maintain his position as the club's first choice. This will mark his debut appearance of 2025–26, having recovered from a hamstring problem sustained during preseason.
CB: Tyler Fredricson—We witnessed flashes of the 20-year-old during the previous campaign, and this appears an appropriate opportunity to reintroduce Fredricson to the United squad.
CB: Harry Maguire—Maguire is positioned to guide a duo of young defenders in Amorim's backline, having featured as a substitute in their first two Premier League matches.
CB: Ayden Heaven—Heaven arrived from Arsenal in January and impressed during his initial months at the club when given opportunities. He should receive the starting nod here.
RWB: Amad Diallo—The Ivorian hasn't quite established his rhythm alongside Bryan Mbeumo on United's right flank, but the Cameroonian's expected unavailability may provide Amad the chance to flourish on Wednesday.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo—Emerging from the sidelines, Mainoo, amid growing transfer speculation, could demonstrate to Amorim what he's been overlooking.
CM: Manuel Ugarte—Ugarte has been restricted to a couple of underwhelming substitute appearances at the season's start, with the Uruguayan failing to make an impact despite working under a manager who previously maximized his potential at Sporting CP.
LWB: Diogo Dalot—Dalot demonstrated his versatility on both flanks last season, and he should provide Patrick Dorgu with some midweek relief.
AM: Bruno Fernandes—The captain squandered a penalty in Sunday's stalemate at Fulham, attributing a nudge from referee Chris Kavanagh for his wayward attempt moments afterward. Fulham capitalized on his reluctance to track back at the weekend, so we should see him deployed in a more forward role here.
AM: Joshua Zirkzee—Zirkzee was deployed in the attacking midfielder position during portions of last season's conclusion, and the Dutchman could feature in one of the No. 10 positions on Wednesday.
ST: Benjamin Šeško—It's been a quiet beginning to his Man Utd journey, but Šeško has the opportunity to kickstart his campaign against League Two opponents.
